Hope for Scaredy-cats

Well, Happy Halloween. While I certainly am never one to turn away candy, I must admit Halloween is not one of my favorite holidays. I'm somewhat of a scaredy-cat, and all the frights and scares are not my thing. Neither are horror movies or scary stories around the campfire. Add rollercoasters and any type of thrill ride to that list. It may be for some people, but fear is not something I go looking for.

Though I may not go looking for it, fear has a way of finding me and, for that matter, all of us. Whether it be the news, personal concerns, family matters, finances, or health worries, it seems like fear has a way of creeping into my life daily. Who needs Halloween when there are "wars and rumors of war" all around us?

I find it comforting, though, that the Bible acknowledges that the world we live in often does elicit fear. And it talks about it often. A quick word search reveals that the words "fear" and "afraid" are used almost 500 times in our Bibles. In fact, "do not be afraid" is one of Jesus's most often repeated lines. Fear is real.

I wish I could say having faith removes all fear. I can't say that, but I can say that faith can help us in not allowing fear to overwhelm or control us. Here are a few of those Scriptures that might help:

Psalm 23:4 (NIV) — "Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me."

God walks with us through the scary stuff. His presence and protection keep us moving forward even when we're afraid.

1 John 4:18 (NIV) — "There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love."

Knowing we are loved by God reminds us that in all things he is working for our best. That perfect love God has for us pushes fear aside, keeping it from dominating our thoughts.

Psalm 118:6 (NIV) — "The LORD is with me; I will not be afraid. What can mere mortals do to me?"

When others oppose us and ridicule us, we know that God will provide strength for the trial. When we know God is on our side, all fears melt away. Even if our life is at stake, our hope of eternal life mitigates our fear.

Luke 12:7 (NIV) — "Indeed, the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Don't be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows."

When you are afraid, take comfort in knowing that God knows all the details of your life and values you more than you can know.

The world can be a frightening place—not just on Halloween, but every day. Yet we don't have to let fear win. Through faith in our Almighty God, we can choose courage over panic, hope over despair, and trust over worry. God's love, protection, and strength are greater than anything we fear.